INDIANAPOLIS, Sept 4: The United States continued its march towards the final at the 2002 World Basketball Championships Tuesday, downing New Zealand 110-62 for its fifth straight victory.

The heavily-favoured Americans (5-0) trailed 25-22 after one quarter of play and led by just six points.

In the other group F game played Tuesday, Russia (2-3) kept its medal hopes alive with a crucial — and easy — 95-68 win over China (1-4).

Argentina (5-0) remained the only other unbeaten team at the tournament after an 86-77 win over Germany (3-2).

In group E action Tuesday, Spain (4-1) lost its first game of the tournament, dropping a 73-65 decision to Puerto Rico (4-1).

In other group E action in the day session, Turkey (2-3) downed Angola (1-4) 86-66 while Yugoslavia (3-2) had its most impressive win over the tournament, crushing previously unbeaten Brazil 90-69.

Earlier in the day, Canada claimed 13th place at the tournament by edging Venezuela 98-97 while Algeria took 14th place with a 100-70 win over winless Lebanon.—Reuters